The organised disorganisation. AKA: The run/walk/climb that was a walk then was a run/walk then a run/walk/climb.

In the run up to this latest hash, John Trimby had kindly volunteered to map the runners’ trail with Slot Machine. However, as the day drew near – a flurry of emails and messages came in from various hashers to apologise for not being able to attend. Therefore, it was suggested by Norman that we supply a walk and not worry about setting a trail. Slot Machine agreed (knowing she could deliver on the day anyway) and so the details were set. Turned out to be a relief as Slot Machine needed to perform an urgent webhosting rescue for a chap on the Costa Blanca.

We had no Hash Cash, no Hash Flash and no Beermeister – but hey… as we weren’t trying to organise a piss-up in a brewery we knew we’d be okay.

On a bright and sunny morning, eight hashers met at El Palacil in Vélez-Blanco. Slot Machine suggested a stroll past the duck pond, through the municipal park, up through the winding streets to the castle and then on up to the Caves where the Indalo Man and El Brujito were first discovered in the form of ancient cave paintings. It was all agreed and off we set.

In between the “Blimey, these streets are steep,” and “Christ – I’m out of breath already” comments, the hashers enjoyed the pretty town and we soon reached the base of the Castle. Slot Machine suggested that anyone who wished to run could split off here, following a different route – eventually meeting with the walkers at the other end of town, ready to visit the caves together. Prickly Tits, Kingfisher, Quuenfisher and John T chose the run.

Slot Machine, Richard, Joan T, and Two ‘Ats sauntered downhill, past a couple of notable “maravillosas” and down a barranco before heading to meet the others who were loitering at a bus stop.

We all headed up towards the cave and another uphill slog began. Richard had expressed a fear of heights and so it was agreed that he would turn back when it got a little too much for him. Everyone else carried on until we reached the bottom of the steps that take you up to the caves. We knew that the cave gate would be locked (our keyholder is on holiday), but the views across Los Vélez valley were still worth viewing from the top. But!!! As luck would have it, an organised group arrived – complete with a key! So the remaining hashers (with the exception of Slot Machine, Two ‘Ats and Prickly Tits) managed to get in and enjoy a presentation from a local guide… and to see the ancient cave paintings anyway… along with about 20 other people and half a dozen dogs.

Two ‘Ats and Prickly Tits needed to dash back to Lubrín to see the result of a cake-making competition (courtesy of Mrs Two ‘Ats) and said their goodbyes. The rest of us met again in the town, but as time was getting on… everyone except Slot Machine and Richard decided to head on home and forego the closing circle. Don’t think you’ve escaped, people – there are downdowns waiting for you! Watering the Campo, taking Fairy Tales too far, sitting down on the hash, several toothy jokes related to the molar mountain, neglecting to use hash names and a load of other made up stuff too.

Richard and Slot Machine then spent the next few hours putting the world to rights and doing the “don’t get stung by the bloody wasps dance” over tapas and drinkies at a local hostelry before heading to their homes.

Despite all the plan changes, the runners got a run, the walkers got a walk, everyone got an uphill slog and enjoyed some phenomenal views, some got a cave presentation and everyone said they’d really enjoyed their day.

The weather in Vélez-Blanco will be turning soon – so there are unlikely to be more hashes up here until the spring. But… if people would really like a rainy and cold hash here, or even one in the snow – then just let Slot Machine know!

Announcements

Slot Machine stepped in as Hash Cash for the day. There was enough money in the pot to pay for the annual website renewal (€15), but will pay the €1 change into the pot next time she comes along.

Kingfisher had stepped in to collect deposits for the Christmas Hash bash on behalf of Carpet Burns… but as no attendees were there – than no money needed to be collected.

Future hashes

Please contact Norman via email on indaloh3@gmail.com to volunteer to organise future hashes. There are so many gaps… and if you haven’t done one before, there are plenty of us that can help with tips and tricks. This link may also help: http://indaloh3.com/how-to-lay-a-trail/